Teacher spotlight

For the past few years, several teachers at Mae L. Feaster Charter School in Chula Vista have been playing in a rock band called Th+nk (Think Positive).

“We wanted to do something focused on the school to create a positive image and get the kids pumped up,” said third-grade teacher Francisco Solis, who plays acoustic guitar in the band. The other members include school computer technician Roel Mislan, lead vocalist; art/specials teacher Matt Flanagan, drums; fourth-grade teacher Ray Devore, lead guitar; and physical education teacher Jim Keegan, bass guitar.

The band plays during the school's fall and spring festivals, along with other special events.

“We have a lot in common,” Solis said. “We play instruments, we're all into music, we're all teachers and we really have fun with it.”

Th+nk is a hobby and stress reliever. In between meetings and tutoring, the band members find time to practice every Monday after school.

They play about 30 songs, including covers of Carlos Santana, John Mayer, Black Eyed Peas and The Monkees. The band even has its own CD and T-shirts, which are sold at performances to benefit school programs and charities.

As far as Solis knows, it's the only teacher rock band in the Chula Vista Elementary School District.

“We kind of boast a little bit, 'Hey, we're the only ones in the district,'” he said. “In the end, it's for the kids. They just really enjoy it and it kind of brings up a positive image for the school as well.”